<p>If you want to compose, you can just apply to colleges that interest you and do a general music major (history, theory, composition, ethnomusicology, technology etc.). That would involve neither audition nor portfolio, though you can always send a music supplement.</p>
<p>A BA would mean 25-50% music, A BM would mean 75% music. Some BM programs do have performance and therefore auditions, but most of the ones I know about don’t. urricularcan still do performance as an extracurricular and take private lessons. Many students who do this do end up doing grad school in good schools. Just another option.</p>
<p>You and your parents might want to read this essay on ways to study music: <a href=“http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/conservatory/admissions/tips/doubledegree.html”>http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/conservatory/admissions/tips/doubledegree.html</a></p>
<p>Also check out SAT/ACT optional schools: <a href=“http://fairtest.org/university/optional”>http://fairtest.org/university/optional</a></p>
<p>Finally, I suggest a book entitled “Creative Colleges” available online and also the book/website/fairs entitled “Colleges that Change LIves” by Loren Pope, who also wrote “Beyond the Ivies.” A school like Clark, or College of Wooster, or many others have really great music programs.</p>
<p>Don’t seek out conservatory or college music programs because you think music will be easier than a full academic program. Music can be intense and sometimes even very academic. Research websites, course listings, requirements and the courses themselves, the background and music of professors and so on.</p>
<p>State universities are a good option too (I mentioned SUNY Purchase, as did others). Smaller LAC’s might really fit the bill though.</p>
<p>Be careful about putting yourself through a lot of stress for no good outcome. NEC is great but aid is not, for instance.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>